Istanbul: Full-Day 2-Sides City Tour with Lunch & Boat Tour
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Food
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
History
Istanbul, a city bridging Europe and Asia, has been a cultural and historical powerhouse for over 2,000 years, serving as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires under names like Byzantium and Constantinople. Its prime location along the Bosporus has shaped it into a vibrant hub of trade, religion, and culture, blending Eastern and Western influences.
This tour offers an immersive journey through Istanbul’s rich past, from the opulent palaces of Ottoman sultans to sacred Islamic sites. By exploring both continents, you’ll witness the city’s evolution into a modern metropolis while connecting with its timeless heritage.
Highlights
- Discover Istanbul by land and sea with a scenic Bosporus cruise
- Visit key landmarks on both the European and Asian sides
- Step into the grandeur of the 19th-century Beylerbeyi Palace
- Enjoy a delicious Turkish lunch included in the tour
- Take in breathtaking views from Camlica Hill and Pierre Loti Hill
Full Description
Embark on a 12-hour guided tour exploring Istanbul’s European and Asian sides, starting with a convenient hotel pickup between 07:50-08:30 AM. Begin at Camlica Hill, where panoramic views of the Bosporus and city skyline await, followed by a visit to the Camlica Mosque, Turkiye’s largest, opened in 2019 by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and visible from nearly every corner of Istanbul.
Next, delve into Ottoman history at the Beylerbeyi Palace, a lavish 19th-century summer residence built during Sultan Abdulhamid II’s reign, showcasing intricate architecture and lush gardens. Continue to the Eyup Sultan Mosque, one of Turkiye’s holiest sites, believed to house the tomb of Ebu Eyüp el-Ansari, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, offering deep spiritual significance.
Conclude your day with a stop at Pierre Loti Hill, named after the French novelist, providing stunning views of the Golden Horn. Then, board a boat for a relaxing Bosporus cruise, where you’ll see Istanbul’s historic waterfront, palaces, and fortresses. After a day of culture, history, and scenery, you’ll be comfortably dropped off at your accommodation.
Why Choose This Experience?
This full-day tour is the perfect way to experience Istanbul’s unique position straddling two continents, blending history, culture, and scenic beauty. With expert guides, a scenic boat ride, and visits to iconic sites, it offers a comprehensive yet accessible introduction to the city’s diverse heritage.
Led by multilingual guides (English, Russian, Spanish, French, Arabic), the tour includes hotel pickup, a traditional Turkish lunch, and free Wi-Fi on the boat for added comfort. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a hassle-free, enriching exploration of Istanbul’s past and present.
What’s Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from select areas in central Istanbul
- Traditional Turkish lunch
- Professional guide (English, Russian, Spanish, French, Arabic)
- Scenic Bosporus boat tour
- Visits to Camlica Hill and Camlica Mosque
- Entry to Beylerbeyi Palace
- Visit to Eyup Sultan Mosque
- Stop at Pierre Loti Hill
- Free Wi-Fi on the boat
Itinerary
- Hotel pickup between 07:50-08:30 AM, depending on location
- Visit Camlica Hill for panoramic city views
- Explore the majestic Camlica Mosque
- Tour the Beylerbeyi Palace (or Camlica Tower on Mondays)
- Visit the sacred Eyup Sultan Mosque
- Stop at Pierre Loti Hill for Golden Horn views
- Enjoy a scenic Bosporus cruise
- Return to accommodation after the cruise
Pricing
From $105 per person
Meeting Point
Hotel pickup is included from select areas in central Istanbul. Pickup times are scheduled between 07:50-08:30 AM, based on your hotel’s location, and will be confirmed one day before the tour. Provide accurate hotel details when booking for seamless coordination.
How to Get There
- Arrange pickup with the tour operator from your hotel in central Istanbul
- Confirm your pickup time (07:50-08:30 AM) one day prior to the tour
- Provide hotel details during booking to ensure smooth arrangements
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Passport or ID card (copy accepted)
Know Before You Go
- Beylerbeyi Palace is closed on Mondays; Camlica Tower is visited instead
- Names and passport numbers of all participants must be provided to the Ministry of Transport after booking, per regulations
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for multiple stops and light walking
- The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reviews
- The tour was amazing, with our guide Ilayza making every moment fun and engaging. Istanbul’s beauty was breathtaking, and the Turkish lunch was a delicious highlight that perfectly complemented the day.
- This experience took us to a mix of iconic and less touristy spots, which felt special. The guides were knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring a smooth and enriching journey through Istanbul.
- The variety of sites, including some off-the-beaten-path locations, was fantastic. Our guides were friendly and well-informed, making the day truly memorable and immersive.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What is the duration and scope of the tour?
This tour spans approximately 12 hours, starting with pickup between 07:50-08:30 AM and ending with drop-off after the Bosporus cruise. It covers both the European and Asian sides of Istanbul, including Camlica Hill, Camlica Mosque, Beylerbeyi Palace, Eyup Sultan Mosque, and Pierre Loti Hill. A traditional Turkish lunch and a scenic boat ride are included, offering a balanced mix of history, culture, and relaxation. The itinerary allows time for photos and exploration, with expert guides providing insights. It’s a comprehensive way to experience Istanbul’s diverse heritage in one day.
Is the Bosporus cruise included, and what can I expect?
Yes, the Bosporus cruise is included in the $105 per person price. You’ll enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Bosporus, taking in stunning views of Istanbul’s waterfront, historic palaces, fortresses, and bridges like the Bosporus Bridge. The cruise offers a unique perspective of landmarks such as the Dolmabahçe Palace and Rumeli Fortress. Free Wi-Fi is available on the boat, and the calm atmosphere allows you to unwind while photographing the city’s iconic skyline. It’s a highlight that complements the land-based exploration.
Are meals provided, and can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
A traditional Turkish lunch is included, featuring authentic dishes like kebabs, mezes, or regional specialties to keep you energized. The meal is a chance to savor local cuisine and connect with fellow travelers. If you have dietary restrictions (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free), inform the operator in advance, and they can accommodate your needs. Drinks may not be included, so confirm with the operator when booking. This lunch break adds a cultural touch to the day’s adventure.
What is the cancellation policy for this tour?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans. Contact the tour operator via the booking platform or provided details to process your cancellation. The “reserve now, pay later” option allows you to secure your spot without upfront payment, adding convenience. This policy ensures peace of mind for travelers with uncertain schedules. Always check your booking confirmation for specific cancellation instructions to ensure a smooth process.
Why is a passport or ID required, and how is it used?
A passport or ID card (copy accepted) is required due to regulations for visiting sites like Beylerbeyi Palace and for compliance with the Ministry of Transport’s rules. After booking, you’ll need to provide your name and passport number to the operator for registration with local authorities. This ensures a seamless experience at secured sites and during transport. Keep your ID handy during the tour for any checks. This requirement is standard for organized tours in Turkiye to maintain safety and compliance.
